Ford Focus 2013: In Review

The Ford Focus was one of the first small cars from a domestic automaker that was truly competitive with traditionally more dominant models from Japan. An affordable price, sharp handling, expressive styling and availability in multiple body styles all contributed to making this one of Ford’s most popular cars worldwide.

The present, third-generation Focus is an epic improvement upon past Focus models. It comes available in sedan and four-door hatchback body styles, the new Focus benefits from great styling and a sharply designed interior dressed up with high-quality materials. It also comes with a new four-cylinder engine that’s more fuel-efficient, a suspension that delivers both above-average handling and a refined ride, and a host of new technology features.

It carries a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, the latter actually being a dual-clutch automated manual. Fuel economy is good, and with the special Super Fuel Economy option package added, the Focus earns a 40-mpg highway estimate from the EPA.

On a 100-mile trip at about 80mph the car did 35mpg. The speed is there and the fuel economy is also noted. The power handling and fuel economy make this car a winner. A fully grown male 6’1 can fit no problem and sit comfortably, but forget about fitting adults in the back as the front seats are adjusted all the way.

The Focus is available in S, SE, SEL and Titanium trim levels. Even the S version is well-equipped with air-conditioning, full power features, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. But more impressive is the wealth of available upscale features that range from a rearview camera to an automated parallel parking assist system. There’s also Ford’s Sync and MyFord Touch systems that largely do away with buttons and knobs in favor of voice commands and a large center touchscreen. Features like the sync system make it feel like a more expensive car.